“Justice has always evoked ideas of equality, of proportion of compensation. Equity signifies equality. Rules and regulations, right and righteousness are concerned with equality in value… If all men [sic] are equal, then all men are of the same essence, and the common essence entitles them of the same fundamental rights and equal liberty… In short justice is another name of liberty, equality and fraternity.”
Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar
Chalice Lighting
Fire cannot be grasped, or held within the hand. Fire is transparent, giving light and warmth to all. As we light this chalice, let us kindle within ourselves and our fellowship. A shared fire that illuminates us to share warmth and light with the world.
Family Discussion Questions
Watch this TED talk by Joan Halifax: Compassion and the true meaning of empathy. Then, with your family or with some friends, discuss the ideas you’ve heard.
Actions
As you go through your week, make note of times and occasions where you could have brought more compassion into the world in an everyday situation.
Or
Identify an individual or location where lack of empathy is having a particularly egregious effect (e.g., a homeless person whom you frequently see on your commutes). With your family or friends, come up with a plan to address the need and bring empathy into the situation.